Umbagog Lake State Park
Great North Woods Basecamp — Where Loons, Moose, and Eagles Rule
Umbagog Lake State Park sits on the wild shore of Umbagog Lake in Errol, New Hampshire — deep in the Great North Woods, adjacent to the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge. This is one of the most wildlife-rich lake environments in all of New England: moose, bald eagles, loons, river otters, and osprey are not occasional visitors but resident residents, and the chances of seeing large wildlife here are among the best in the northeastern United States.
The park offers an unusual split personality: a developed base campground with electric hookups, hot showers, and a camp store — and over 30 primitive wilderness campsites and remote cabins scattered around the lake’s shoreline, accessible only by boat. For paddlers, it’s one of the finest wilderness camping experiences available in New England. For families, the base camp provides comfortable access to one of the wildest lakes in the region.
Things to Do
Paddling & Boating
Umbagog Lake is a premier paddling destination in New Hampshire. The park offers canoe and kayak rentals, and staff can arrange boat transportation to remote campsites (for a fee). The lake’s size and wind exposure require paddling experience — check weather conditions before heading out. The connected Magalloway and Androscoggin rivers offer additional paddling routes through the wildlife refuge.
Fishing
The lake is a coldwater fishery known for landlocked salmon, lake trout, and brook trout. A concrete boat launch provides easy access. A New Hampshire fishing license is required; some areas near the Maine border may also require a Maine license.
Wildlife Watching
The combination of the lake and the adjacent National Wildlife Refuge creates exceptional viewing opportunities. Moose are commonly seen along shorelines at dawn and dusk. Bald eagles and ospreys nest in the area. Common loons breed on the lake — some remote campsites are seasonally closed (until late July) to protect nesting loons.
Camping
Umbagog offers two distinct camping experiences:
| Type | Sites | Access | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Campground | ~30 | Drive-in | Electric/water hookups, hot showers, camp store, beach, dump station |
| Remote/Wilderness sites | 30+ | Boat-in only | Fire pit, picnic table, pit toilet; carry-in/carry-out; NO water/electric |
| Remote Cabins | Several | Boat-in only | Basic shelter; reservable; remote wilderness setting |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | ⭐ Best paddling; moose sightings; loon watching; fishing; warm water | Black flies June; book remote sites early; some sites closed for loons |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Brilliant foliage on water; moose rut; fewer insects; cool paddling | Park closes mid-October; cold nights; shorter days |
| Spring (May–Jun) | High water; bird migration; eagles/osprey nesting; solitude | Black flies intense; cold water; limited facilities early |
Visitor Tips
- Moose Alley: The stretch of Route 3 north of Pittsburg toward the Canadian border is famous as “Moose Alley” — one of the best moose-viewing drives in New England. Dawn and dusk are prime times. Drive slowly and watch the road shoulders.
- Wind awareness: Umbagog Lake can develop dangerous wind and waves quickly. Check weather conditions before paddling to remote sites. Hug the shoreline rather than crossing open water in anything smaller than a large canoe.
- Firewood rules: You cannot bring your own firewood — it must be purchased on-site to prevent invasive insect spread.
- Cell service: Cell coverage is very limited throughout the Errol/Umbagog area. Plan communications accordingly, especially for remote camping trips.
- Two-state lake: Umbagog Lake straddles the New Hampshire–Maine border. Fishing regulations may differ between the two states — carry both licenses if fishing near the border.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nearby Attractions
Lake Umbagog NWR — surrounding — has 27,603 acres of protected wilderness. Errol — nearby — is a tiny crossroads. Thirteen Mile Woods — NH’s premier moose-viewing drive along the Androscoggin River. Dixville Notch — 15 miles west. Rangeley, Maine — 30 miles east — has lakes and outdoor recreation.
Can you rent boats at Umbagog Lake State Park?
Yes — the park offers canoe and kayak rentals at the base camp area. Staff can also arrange boat transportation to remote wilderness campsites for a fee. A concrete boat launch is available for visitors bringing their own watercraft.
What wildlife can you see at Umbagog Lake?
Umbagog Lake is one of the most wildlife-rich lake environments in New England. Common sightings include moose (especially at dawn and dusk along shorelines), nesting bald eagles and ospreys, Common Loons, river otters, beavers, and diverse waterfowl. The adjacent Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge adds additional habitat, making this one of the best wildlife-watching destinations in the northeastern United States.
Last updated: April 2026
